S Club's Jo expecting first baby

Former S Club 7 band member and Celebrity Big Brother contestant Jo O'Meara has confirmed she is expecting a baby in April.

The 28-year-old singer, who was last in the spotlight for her involvement in the racist bullying of fellow Big Brother star Shilpa Shetty, has revealed that she is six months pregnant with her first child with her long-term partner.

"It wasn't planned, but it's a very nice surprise. I'm nervous at the thought of a little person calling me Mum, but it's a very happy way to begin 2008," she said.

"This feels like a fresh start to me - new year, new baby, new purpose. I'm grateful for that."

Jo was first launched to fame as lead vocalist of the award-winning British pop group S Club 7, created by former Spice Girls manager Simon Fuller.

After four years of chart success the band broke up in 2003. Jo went on to start a solo career following the split, releasing her first solo single in September 2005.